Education & Acts of Citizenship

This 90-minute online discussion explores how education can help young people practice citizenship through meaningful participation, dialogue, and collective action. Rather than focusing only on learning about citizenship, the session examines how schools, universities, and other learning environments can create opportunities for young people to exercise agency, influence decisions, and engage with real-world challenges. Participants will reflect on examples of citizenship in everyday educational settings, consider different forms and levels of youth participation, and discuss what it means to share power with young people. 

The conversation will also explore the role of education in supporting active citizenship in response to contemporary issues such as climate change, social justice, and democratic engagement. Through interactive discussion and collaborative reflection, participants will consider what kinds of citizens education is currently cultivating and what approaches might better prepare young people to contribute to more just, sustainable, and democratic futures. The session is designed for educators, researchers, practitioners, and anyone interested in youth participation and civic learning.